Academics & Majors

Physical and Mathematical Sciences

The University’s academic programs in the physical sciences give you excellent student-to-teacher ratios and options for research experience with guidance from internationally respected scholars. The University’s programs in mathematics not only give you a solid foundation in the study of logical structures, they help you apply your knowledge to research that addresses real-world problems.

These programs build a strong foundation for career success in industry, consulting, and high-demand areas of high school teaching, as well as for later achievement in graduate and professional schools.

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Acclaimed academic programs

The University's majors in chemistry, geology, math, and physics each offer you challenging work, unsurpassed student-teacher ratios, and unique advantages.

Learn by doing...in the lab or in the field

WSU science graduates report that their skills on their first jobs more than match those of other new employees with degrees from other top universities.

That's because the physical science programs at WSU go far beyond lecture notes and canned lab assignments. You also get priceless mentorship from faculty — including hands-on experience and opportunities to contribute in their research labs and field projects.

World-class facilities

Because WSU is a premier research university, not a regional university or a smaller college, the latest laboratory technology is right here on campus.

And unlike most research universities, WSU encourages undergrads (that means you!) to use it.

You're invited to apply for positions in faculty labs and research teams, in which you can learn to use the finest research equipment in all the physical science departments. You could even learn to run the University's own nuclear reactor.

Friends at every step

Imagine living next door to the same friends you see in your classes. You go to class together, study for tests together, and help each other succeed. That's the kind of community you'll find here at Washington State University.

Science majors can choose to live in the University's designated STEM residence hall, in which your neighbors will be science, math, and engineering majors — making that sense of shared effort and common goals a reality.

At WSU, you get the world-class academic and research opportunities of a big university with the close-knit community of a small one.